Consequences of soil degradation

Consequences of soil degradation

Degraded soil loses some of its characteristics rendering it unsuitable for use; for example, loss of soil fertility, soil erosion and death of organisms which live in it. The degraded soil is unable to support plant growth.

1. Soil erosion: Soil erosion is the transfer of the upper layer of the land from one place to another. This happens when the soil is left bare. Bare land is caused by deforestation and burning of the forest. Soil erosion is also caused by poor agricultural practices and overgrazing. Likewise, unplanned building of infrastructure and improper mining practices cause soil erosion.
2. Retardation of plant growth: Plants grow well on different types of soil depending on nutrient requirements. Plants which are grown in infertile soils become retarded in growth and may die. Lack of plant nutrients leads to retardation of plant growth, poor production of seeds and poor development of generations. This may lead to the extinction of some plant species.
3. Decrease or loss of living things: There are different types of living things in the soil. The affected soil may affect these organisms due to lack of some important requirements. This affects the ability of some organisms to reproduce and others may die.